“Phillip Fulmer will begin serving as athletic director effective immediately,” Davenport said in the statement. “I have taken these steps in the best interest of the university.

“I am confident that Phillip understands the need to support our student-athletes and our commitment to excellence in all athletic programs. I appreciate his willingness to serve during this critical time. No one better understands the storied history of Vol athletics and its deep connection to alumni and fans, and I believe he will be a unifying presence for all of us committed to the university’s success.”

Tennessee fired John Currie after only eight months on the job earlier Friday morning.

Knoxville has been in a state of chaos this week as Currie searched for a new head coach. The Vols cycled through at least a dozen candidates before Currie was relieved of his duties.

Fulmer was the head coach of the Volunteers for their 1998 National Championship run. In total, he was the coach for 17 seasons and led the Vols to 152-52 record while winning a pair of SEC Championships.